Beef Enchilada Tortellini
Beef Enchilada Tortellini is a fun twist on two favorites rolled into one dish. It combines the cheesy, meaty richness of beef enchiladas with the tender, pillowy goodness of tortellini…
Tip: save now, cook later.Beef Enchilada Tortellini is a fun twist on two favorites rolled into one dish. It combines the cheesy, meaty richness of beef enchiladas with the tender, pillowy goodness of tortellini pasta. The flavors of savory beef, gooey cheese, and a touch of enchilada sauce give this pasta a comforting and satisfying vibe that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
I love making this recipe when I want something a little different but still super easy to whip up. It’s a great way to use ingredients you might already have on hand, and it comes together faster than traditional enchiladas. Plus, I find that the tortellini wraps up all those flavors in such a fun bite-sized way — making it a hit with kids and adults alike.
My favorite way to serve Beef Enchilada Tortellini is with a simple green salad or some crunchy tortilla chips on the side. It balances out the richness and adds a little extra texture to the meal. Whenever I make this dish, everyone ends up asking for seconds, so I always make sure to double the batch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This gives the dish its meaty, hearty flavor. You can swap beef for ground turkey or chicken if you want a lighter option. For a vegetarian twist, try crumbled plant-based meat or cooked lentils.
Cheese Tortellini: Cheese-filled tortellini is perfect here because it adds creaminess and texture. If you can’t find tortellini, ravioli or even cheese-filled dumplings work well.
Enchilada Sauce: Store-bought enchilada sauce saves time but making your own adds freshness. You can substitute with salsa roja or a mild tomato sauce mixed with chili powder.
Spices: Cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika bring that classic enchilada warmth. Adjust amounts to match your spice preference—less chili powder if you like it mild.
Sour Cream & Cheese: Sour cream adds creaminess and cools the heat. Use Greek yogurt as a healthier option. Blend cheddar with Monterey Jack or mozzarella if you want a milder cheese blend.
How Do I Get the Beef Mixture Full of Flavor Without Overcooking?
For a juicy and tasty beef base, follow these steps:
- Start by sautéing the onion until soft and translucent; this releases natural sweetness.
- Adding garlic just before the beef helps keep its aroma fresh and strong.
- Cook beef over medium heat to brown it nicely but avoid drying it out. Stir often and break it into small pieces.
- Drain fat if there’s too much, or leave some for richer flavor.
- Add spices early with the beef so they toast slightly and release their oils—this deepens the flavor.
- Pour in enchilada sauce and simmer gently for five minutes. This step helps the meat soak up the sauce’s tangy, spicy notes.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – to boil the tortellini evenly without sticking.
- Large skillet or sauté pan – perfect for cooking the beef and blending the sauce.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – helps break up the ground beef and stir ingredients gently.
- Colander – to drain the cooked tortellini quickly and easily.
- Measuring spoons and cups – to keep your spice and sauce amounts just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to lighten the meal but keep the protein.
- Add black beans or corn to the beef mixture for extra texture and a hint of sweetness.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a mild spicy kick.
- Mix in chopped fresh jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce if you like heat.
Beef Enchilada Tortellini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 package (9 oz/250 g) cheese tortellini
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1-2 tbsp olive oil
- Sour cream, for topping
- Fresh chopped green onions or cilantro, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook. Overall, you can have this delicious Beef Enchilada Tortellini ready in about 25 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying meal for any day of the week.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Tortellini:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package directions until they’re just tender (al dente). Drain the tortellini and set them aside for later.
2. Making the Beef Mixture:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute.
Next, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with your spoon or spatula. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
Season the beef with cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well so all the spices blend with the meat.
Pour in the enchilada sauce. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors can come together beautifully.
3. Combining & Serving:
Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet with the beef mixture. Toss gently to coat all the tortellini with the sauce and beef.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese on top and stir lightly to melt the cheese into the warm mixture.
Spoon the beef enchilada tortellini into bowls. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over each serving.
Add a dollop of sour cream in the center and garnish with fresh chopped green onions or cilantro for a fresh pop of flavor.
Serve right away and enjoy your comforting, cheesy beef enchilada tortellini!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini for This Recipe?
Yes! If using frozen tortellini, just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions before adding it to the beef mixture. No need to thaw beforehand—just boil straight from frozen.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Simply replace the ground beef with cooked lentils, crumbled tofu, or a plant-based meat substitute. Adjust the seasoning as needed and proceed with the enchilada sauce and cheese as usual.
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can cook the beef mixture and tortellini in advance, then store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, combine in a skillet and warm through. Add cheese and toppings just before serving.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally so it warms evenly and the cheese melts nicely.